Si Jun Zi Tang
Classical TCM Formula Profile
Part of the HJMEDICAL TCM Discovery Center
四君子汤 · Sì Jūn Zǐ Tāng
The foundational Qi-tonifying formula for pure Spleen and Stomach Qi deficiency. It rebuilds the transformation and transportation function of the Spleen without addressing significant dampness or phlegm.
Read the complete guide →Quick Facts
- Formula Category
- Qi-Tonifying Formulas
- Primary Pattern
- Spleen Qi Deficiency
- Primary Function
- Tonify Spleen Qi
- Primary Therapeutic Principle
- Tonify Qi and strengthen the Spleen
- Classical Source
- Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Formulary of the Pharmacy Service for Benefiting the People, Song dynasty, 1107)
- Available as Granules
- Yes
Formula Overview
The foundational Qi-tonifying formula for pure Spleen and Stomach Qi deficiency. It rebuilds the transformation and transportation function of the Spleen without addressing significant dampness or phlegm.
Therapeutic Principle
Traditionally selected for pure Spleen Qi deficiency without complicating phlegm, dampness or stagnation — the plain tonifying base from which Liu Jun Zi Tang departs by adding Ban Xia and Chen Pi for phlegm-damp, and Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang departs further when bloating from Qi stagnation predominates.
Composition
(Sovereign / Minister / Assistant / Envoy)
Related Conditions
Related Health Topics
How does this formula compare?
| Compare | Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Tonify Spleen Qi | Tonify Spleen Qi, resolve phlegm-damp | Tonify Spleen Qi, resolve dampness, stop diarrhoea | Tonify Spleen Qi, resolve phlegm-damp, move Qi |
| Formula Category | Qi-Tonifying Formulas | Qi-Tonifying Formulas | Qi-Tonifying Formulas | Qi-Tonifying Formulas |
| Typical TCM Pattern | Spleen Qi Deficiency | Spleen Qi Deficiency | Spleen Qi Deficiency | Spleen Qi Deficiency |
| Main Conditions | Poor Appetite ·Diarrhea ·Spleen Qi Deficiency | Poor Appetite ·Bloating ·Stomach Discomfort ·Diarrhea | Diarrhea ·Poor Appetite ·Bloating ·Spleen Qi Deficiency | Poor Appetite ·Bloating ·Diarrhea ·Stomach Discomfort |
| Main Herbs | Ginseng Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen ·Honey-fried Licorice | Ginseng Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen ·Tangerine Peel ·Pinellia Rhizome | Ginseng Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen ·Honey-fried Licorice ·Chinese Yam | Ginseng Root ·White Atractylodes Rhizome ·Poria / Hoelen ·Tangerine Peel ·Pinellia Rhizome |
| Classical Source | Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Formulary of the Pharmacy Service for Benefiting the People, Song dynasty, 1107) | Yi Xue Zheng Zhuan (or derived from Si Jun Zi Tang + Chen Pi + Ban Xia) | Tai Ping Hui Min He Ji Ju Fang (Song dynasty) | Gu Jin Ming Yi Fang Lun (citing Ke Yunbo, Qing dynasty, ~1675) |
Clinical Perspective
Si Jun Zi Tang is the base formula for pure Spleen Qi deficiency. Liu Jun Zi Tang adds Ban Xia and Chen Pi when phlegm-damp is present. Shen Ling Bai Zhu San further addresses chronic diarrhoea and dampness. Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang is chosen when Qi stagnation and bloating predominate.
For educational reference only, based on traditional pattern differentiation — not a substitute for professional advice.
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Medical Disclaimer
For general TCM education only — not medical advice. Consult a qualified TCM practitioner or licensed healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, on medication, or managing a chronic condition.